Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream Moisturizer

Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream Moisturizer
8.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
7.7 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants

Review

Does Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream Moisturizer work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream Moisturizer:

  • Intense moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 8.8 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Perfect moisturizer for normal to dry skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream Moisturizer is intensely moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 8.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈3.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈2.5%), and a high occlusivity of 7.7 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈9.0%) and Stearic Acid (est. ≈4.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with normal skin who want intense hydration in a rich yet not overly thick formula. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to provide effective dual-action moisturizing.

The product’s occlusive profile suggests a texture that is rich and creamy but not overly thick, offering the potential to absorb into the skin without leaving a greasy afterfeel in most cases.

This product may also be a good choice for people with dry (but not very dry) skin for daily hydration, as it strikes a balance between significant moisturizing potential and a texture that is not too thick.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream Moisturizer has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Ascorbyl Palmitate, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Ascorbyl Palmitate provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, this ingredient does not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Rich in skin-protecting antioxidants

We estimate that Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream Moisturizer is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Extract (est. ≈2.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
PEG-8
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Arnica Montana Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Parietaria Officinalis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Trehalose
Function:
Origin:
Algin
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Serine
Function:
Origin:
Linoleic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Phospholipids
Function:
Origin:
Phytosterols
Function:
Origin:
Cananga Odorata Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Urea
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Pullulan
Function:
Origin:
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Polyacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Disodium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Hydroxypropyltrimonium Amylopectin/Glycerin Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Methylpropanediol
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 60
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Polyquaternium-10
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Aminomethyl Propanol
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
11.5
3
2.5
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
15.4
9.0
4.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
8.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.5 10
10.0
3
2.5
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 15.4 20
7.7
9.0
4.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
8.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
3
2.5
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.5 10
10
All humectants
11.5
3
2.5
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 15.4 20
7.7
All occlusives
15.4
9.0
4.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Ascorbyl Palmitate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 5 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
5
Aloe Barbadensis Extract
2
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
0.3
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract
0.3
Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract
0.3
Ascorbyl Palmitate
0.3
Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Phytosterols
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
BHT
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 3.5 5 No
All soothing
3.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %55
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate
Stearic Acid
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Glycerin
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Aloe Barbadensis Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis ExtractAn antioxidant extract from the gelatinous pulp of Aloe vera leaves with humectant moisturizing polysaccharide mucilage. It is suitable for irritated or eczema-prone skin.
Dimethicone
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
PEG-8
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
PEG-8A synthetic liquid that serves as a humectant. It also works as a solvent because of its ability to dissolve a wide range of ingredients.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Cetearyl AlcoholA blend of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, the fatty alcohols that are derived from palm oil. It helps to create emulsions that give off a soft and silky emollient feel and also increase product thickness.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed ExtractA potent antioxidant and emollient extract derived from grape seeds. It contains antioxidant flavonoids, tannins, proanthocyanidins, phytosterols, carotenoids, and vitamin E. It is often used in skincare products aimed at soothing and healing irritated skin.
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit ExtractA soothing, cooling, and emollient extract derived from cucumbers. Cucumber has been used in skincare for centuries and is used to treat skin problems such as eye swelling, sunburn, and itchy and irritated skin.
Arnica Montana Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arnica Montana Flower ExtractAn extract derived from the flower heads of the mountain arnica plant. This plant is used as herbal medicine to treat wounds, bruises, and inflammation. In skincare, however, it is mostly added for fragrance purposes due to its pleasant pine and sage odor.
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hedera Helix (Ivy) ExtractA soothing extract from the leaves of common ivy (not to be confused with poison ivy) that is rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and astringent triterpene saponins.
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract
Parietaria Officinalis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Parietaria Officinalis Extract
Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sambucus Nigra Flower ExtractDerived from the plant called black elder or elderberry, this extract is an occlusive and soothing ingredient that also contains antioxidant flavonoids.
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl PalmitateA form of vitamin C derived from ascorbic acid and palmitic acid. It is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. Unfortunately, Ascorbyl Palmitate lacks the studies to prove its anti-wrinkle efficacy.
Trehalose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TrehaloseA sweet-tasting saccharide that can be found in various yeasts and fungi and that is manufactured from starch for cosmetic purposes. It is one of the most popular sugars in skincare and is mainly used for its humectant properties.
Algin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AlginA plant-based ingredient that can form gels when added to water, so it can thicken water-based products. Algin serves as a binding agent, where it helps hold the other ingredients in the product together and prevents them from separating.
Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Sodium HyaluronateA very small-molecule version of regular sodium hyaluronate. It is a powerful humectant skin-identical ingredient that absorbs into the skin and offers plumping, smoothing, and anti-wrinkle effects.
Serine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SerineA non-essential amino acid, meaning that our body can produce it. It is the largest constituent of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor and is used in skincare as a humectant moisturizing ingredient.
Linoleic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Linoleic AcidA fatty acid isolated from various plant oils (notably evening primrose, safflower, grape seed, and sunflower oil). It is an occlusive moisturizer and emollient that doesn't leave an oily, sticky residue and is especially suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
Phospholipids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhospholipidsA large group of lipids that are an essential component of every single cell membrane in the body. They have excellent emollient properties. Phospholipids are also utilized in the manufacturing of ‘fancy’ formulations such as liposomes.
Phytosterols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhytosterolsA plant-based version of cholesterol that is used for its emollient properties in skincare. The richest sources of phytosterols are corn, rapeseed, and wheat germ oil.
Cananga Odorata Flower Oil
Est. %0.2
Function
Origin
Cananga Odorata Flower Oil

A fragrant essential oil obtained from the flowers of the tropical ylang-ylang tree. It is a popular ingredient in skincare, as well as in aromatherapy, perfumes, and the food industry for its sweet, floral, slightly fruity, jasmine-like scent.

Urea
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
UreaUrea can be found in urine, skin, and other tissues as a degradation product of proteins. In concentrations below 5%, urea is humectant moisturizing. At concentrations above 10% it is keratolytic, that helps to break away old, flaking, and cracked skin.
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated LecithinA version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
Pullulan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pullulan
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylhydroxamic AcidA chelating agent used alongside preservatives in order to boost their antimicrobial activity.
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Extract

A fragrant oil extract obtained from bitter orange flowers with some occlusive moisturizing properties and a gentle orange blossom scent.

Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrasodium Glutamate DiacetateA biodegradable chelating agent that chemically captures the heavy metal ions naturally present in water and disarms their harmful effects.
Glyceryl Polyacrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl PolyacrylateA synthetic thickening polymer that can be used in a variety of product types. This polymer can feel lightweight but can also stand up to heavier ingredients in products like body butters.
Sodium Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CitrateA salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.
Disodium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium PhosphateAn inorganic ingredient primarily used in skincare products as a pH adjuster.
Palmitoyl Hydroxypropyltrimonium Amylopectin/Glycerin Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Hydroxypropyltrimonium Amylopectin/Glycerin Crosspolymer
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Potassium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium PhosphateA salt of phosphoric acid that normally acts as a weak base.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Methylpropanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethylpropanediolMethylpropanediol is a unique glycol that contains two primary hydroxyl groups. That makes methylpropanediol a powerful humectant and an excellent solvent.
Polysorbate 60
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 60An ester based on sorbitan. It is good for emulsifying water and oils together – specifically making oil-in-water emulsions. Polysorbate 60 is also said to give a product a notable fragrance.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Polyquaternium-10
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyquaternium-10A cellulose-based film former.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl AlcoholA waxy solid fatty alcohol derived from palm oil. It is most commonly used as a co-emulsifier and affects the final aesthetic of the product, leaving a soft and silky feeling on the skin. Cetyl alcohol is also used as a viscosity controlling agent.
PEG-100 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-100 StearateThis surfactant is more specifically classified as an emulsifier that produces oil-in-water emulsions. PEG-100 stearate can also be used as a cleansing agent.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl StearateAn emollient and emulsifier typically derived from vegetable sources through a chemical reaction with glycerin. It provides stability, texture, and consistency to formulations. Its main function is to allow oil and water to mix.
Aminomethyl Propanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aminomethyl PropanolA synthetic ingredient that helps to adjust the pH of a product to make it less acidic.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Hydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxystearic AcidA strongly emollient and occlusive saturated fatty acid isolated from castor oil.
BHT
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BHTAn antioxidant ingredient that naturally occurs in green algae and some bacteria or fungi but, for commercial use, is created synthetically. BHT is also used occasionally as a fragrance, where it presents a sweet, camphor-like odor.
Benzyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl BenzoateA fragrance ingredient with a fruity and woody scent. It is considered an allergen according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), which means that care must be taken when determining usage levels in skincare products.
Benzyl Salicylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Salicylate

A fragrance ingredient with a sweet, floral, and slightly balsamic scent. It is one of the twenty-six fragrances that are considered allergens according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), and so its use is restricted.

Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.